Social Work

The educational purpose of the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at the University of Alaska Anchorage is to prepare graduates for beginning professional social work practice. Preparation for professional practice builds on a broad-based liberal arts education accomplished through completion of the General Education and major degree requirements.

Social work is a profession committed to assisting individuals, families, groups, organizations, communities and society as a whole in the improvement of the quality of life through the amelioration of social problems, equitable distribution of social resources and client empowerment. Within an overall emphasis on consumer-centered planned change, the BSW program is guided by the following principles:

Social work practice is based on selective use of knowledge in planned efforts with human systems and social problems.

Social work practice recognizes human diversity as a strength.

Social work practice is based on professional values and ethics.

Social work practice is based on professional relationships.

Social work practice is based on reciprocal role performance.

Social work practice is based on a strengths perspective.

Social work education engages the student in carefully planned experiences to achieve the knowledge, skills and values necessary for beginning professional practice. These experiences take place in the classroom, laboratory, volunteer experience, small seminars and selected field work practicum placements. The practicum placement is an essential component for completion of the professional degree for the BSW.

The BSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). BSW program admission and curriculum requirements are consistent with BSW licensing requirements for the state of Alaska.